Lead and oversee the cost control function for multiple projects, ensuring alignment with company- wide financial strategies and objectives.
Provide strategic direction for cost control methodologies, systems, and processes to ensure the efficient and effective management of project budgets.
Monitor and assess the overall financial health of all ongoing projects, with a focus on long-term cost optimization and financial performance.
Collaborate with the Tender and Estimation departments to review and refine project cost estimation files before project awards.
Lead the preparation and approval of the Baseline Budget for projects, ensuring all stakeholders (CEO, Commercial, Project Control Managers, etc.) are consulted and approval is obtained.
Ensure accurate alignment of project cost structures (WBS, OBSj with company norms and standards.
Approve amendments to project budgets in case of additional scope or changes, ensuring that any variations are properly documented and communicated to senior management.
Oversee the preparation of comprehensive Monthly Project Cost Control Reports using ERP systems, ensuring alignment with company standards and accurate cost vs. budget analysis.
Perform in-depth cost analysis and identify potential cost overruns or deviations, taking proactive measures to mitigate risks and escalate issues when necessary.
Lead the creation of detailed financial reports and presentations for senior management, providing clear insights into project cost status, variances, and corrective actions.
Supervise the evaluation of cost-to-complete reports, ensuring accuracy and reliability of forecasts based on historical data and trends.
Implement advanced cost control techniques and systems, including Earned Value Management (EVM), to monitor project progress and cost efficiency.
Define and enforce efficiency targets for project resources, including direct materials, consumables, labor, and equipment, ensuring alignment with budgetary constraints.
Review and set standards for material wastage, direct and indirect manpower deployment, and equipment usage to maximize cost efficiency.
Serve as the primary point of contact between project teams, finance, and senior management regarding cost control matters.
Prepare and present comprehensive cost reports to internal and external stakeholders, translating complex cost data into actionable insights.
Define and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to assess the financial health of projects and overall cost control performance.
Regularly analyze KPIs against industry benchmarks and historical performance data to identify areas for improvement.
Ensure that all project budget documents, reports, and revisions are up-to-date and approved by management.
Be proficient in using the company's ERP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle, etc.) to manage project budgets, cost codes, and financial data.
Ensure accurate data input, tracking, and reporting using the ERP system, and leverage the system for real-time project cost monitoring and decision-making.
Continuously optimize ERP system usage to improve cost control processes and data accuracy across multiple projects.
Drive the continuous improvement of cost control systems and methodologies, adopting best
practices and new technologies to enhance cost efficiency.
Stay updated with industry trends and innovations related to cost control and project management.
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in Civil/ Mechanical Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or related field (Master's preferred).
Minimum 15+ years of experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role in the UAE construction sector.
Proven experience with large-scale mixed-use or high-rise building projects.
Strong understanding of FIDIC contracts, cost control, and procurement practices.
Excellent leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
